While automated processes and algorithms are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the field of 3D printing, human interaction remains invaluable for leveraging creativity, addressing complex challenges, and ensuring the successful integration of 3D printing technology into various industries and domains.

Like other tech companies and startups, additive manufacturing – aka 3D printing – benefited greatly from an influx of capital in 2020-2021. Over the past two years, several 3D printing companies have gone public, raised large funding rounds, been acquired, or merged with other companies in an effort to further scale their businesses. However, the recent decline in valuations of public 3D printing companies is raising some questions about the market potential of the technology.

Anyone who is creating a physical product should be familiar with the difference between Proof of Concept, Prototype, and Minimum Viable Product. One of the most cost-effective and time-saving ways to create and iterate hardware products is through 3D printing.

Before you can “press print” on a 3D printer, you must first have a digital 3D model of your part(s). 3D models can come in a variety of CAD file types that can be opened and edited in 3D modeling software. One of the most common discussions we have with clients is what types of 3D model files we need for quoting and 3D printing parts.

As daily users of a variety of 3D printing technologies, we want to share our list of the three best innovative 3D printers for beginners in business. These might not be the best printers for children and/or hobbyists, but if you’re looking to use your 3D printer as a way to generate income, look no further than these three machines.

Prototyping is the iterative process used by product designers to create new parts and inventions, and it's also what 3D printing is most well-known for. However, 3D printing is also extremely important to the restoration and recreation of old and existing parts. Thanks to the help of 3D scanning technology, architects, engineers, scientists, doctors, historians, archaeologists, and beyond are now able to create near-perfect 3D printed replicas of almost anything. Existing and emerging 3D technology is working hard to preserve history and in some cases, save lives.

We live in a world that demands affordable products on a rapid timeline. We are also increasingly seeing more demand for sustainably produced products. It is difficult to reconcile these two seemingly contradictory requirements. However, additive processes such as 3D printing are offering up resource-saving solutions that are changing the game. Here are some of the ways 3D printing can help make production more sustainable.

The biggest mistake you can make in 3D printing is not understanding the limitations of 3D printing. This post contains some simple tips for developing 3D printable CAD models.